Da Rocha and Le Ny take Victory at 2025 UCI Granfondo Guadeloupe

Mathilde Rodrigues Da Rocha and Benjamin Le Ny captured the inaugural UCI Granfondo Guadeloupe crowns after a hard-fought 126 km race that tested riders with 3,000 meters of climbing and Caribbean heat along the island’s scenic coastal roads.

Benjamin Le Ny, 26, of Team Madras Cycling Belle Eau, rode a decisive solo move on the day’s major climb to secure victory in 3:11:05 and earn qualification for the UCI Granfondo World Championships. He finished ahead of Excelsior teammates Taino Cailliau (3:19:02) and Alexis Bernagaud (3:28:19), while Le Ny’s teammate Damien Urcel crossed the line in fourth. “I felt strong on the climbs and committed to the break when the gradient pushed everyone to their limits,” said Le Ny. “The support from the team and the energy from the crowds along the route made the difference.”

In the women’s race, 31-year-old Mathilde Rodrigues Da Rocha delivered a controlled and powerful performance to take the win in 4:21:47. She held off a resilient chase by Excelsior’s Christel Martinez, who finished second in 4:27:10, and Clemence Briche, who completed the podium in 4:33:21. The race showcased tactical savvy and sustained climbing strength across the leading group, emphasizing endurance and racecraft in demanding tropical conditions.

Organizers described the day as a successful debut for the UCI-licensed event in Guadeloupe, noting smooth logistics, strong rider fields, and enthusiastic local support. The route combined technical coastal sections with steep inland climbs, creating a challenging mix that favored riders who could manage high tempo and repeated ascents. Medical and aid stations were positioned throughout the course to ensure rider safety in warm temperatures and variable wind conditions.

The inaugural Granfondo also highlighted regional talent and the depth of French Antilles cycling clubs, with teams like Excelsior and Madras Cycling Belle Eau featuring prominently on the final standings. Race officials confirmed that UCI qualification spots awarded at this event will be recognized for entry to the 2026 UCI Granfondo World Championships, giving winners and podium finishers an important pathway to the global stage.

Link to 2025 UCI Granfondo Guadeloupe Results: https://docs.google.com/viewerng/viewer?url=https://rci.fm/sites/default/files/2025-12/cate%CC%81gorie+grand+fondo.pdf